Turning 65 in Chattanooga? Here's Where to Start with Medicare

Medicare Learning Center | Covenant Group Insurance & Financial Services

Turning 65 is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring a surprising amount of mail, paperwork, and questions about Medicare. Even if you have already turned 65 and signed up for Medicare, we can help make sure your coverage is right for your specific needs.

If you live in Chattanooga or the surrounding communities, understanding a few important basics can help you prepare for the decisions ahead. If you can’t come to us, we will come to you.

1. Understand the four parts of Medicare

Medicare has several parts, each serving a different purpose.

Part A: Generally, helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care under qualifying conditions, hospice, and some home health services.

Part B: Generally, helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and other medically necessary services.

Part C: (Medicare Advantage): An alternative way to receive your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare-approved private plan. Most plans also include prescription drug coverage.

Part D: Helps cover prescription medications through Medicare drug coverage offered by private insurers.

Understanding how these pieces fit together is an important first step.

2. Know when your enrollment period begins

For many people, the Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before the month they turn 65 and continues for three months afterward.

But not everyone needs to enroll at exactly the same time.

For example, if you're still working and have employer-sponsored health coverage, your circumstances may affect when you should enroll in Medicare Part B.

Before making an enrollment decision, it's important to understand the rules that apply to your situation. Missing an applicable enrollment deadline could result in a coverage gap or late-enrollment penalty.

3. Think about your doctors and medications

When evaluating Medicare coverage, consider the healthcare services you currently use.

Ask yourself:

• Are my preferred doctors and hospitals included in the plan's network, if applicable?

  
  

• How are my prescriptions covered?

  
  

• What monthly premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses might apply?

  
  

• Do I travel frequently or spend time living in another state?

These questions can help you evaluate available coverage options based on your individual needs.

4. You don't have to navigate Medicare alone

At Covenant Group Insurance & Financial Services, Steve and Jada help individuals and families throughout the Chattanooga area better understand Medicare.

Whether you're approaching 65, helping a parent explore coverage, or reviewing an existing plan, their goal is to make the information easier to understand so

you can make informed decisions.

Ready to ask questions about Medicare?

Questions? Call Steve & Jada

Covenant Group Insurance & Financial Services

Phone: 423-855-8484

Website: www.covenantgroupinsurance.com

Not affiliated with or endorsed by the government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation for insurance.